Not many composers under 30 years old can say they have had a Carnegie Hall premiere - or several recordings of their music. Mohammed Fairouz laughed when I mentioned that by the age of 26 he had accomplished this and more: "No, I'm only 27!" he said.
The latest from the Arab-American composer is called "Native Informant," out on the Naxos label, which features violinist Rachel Barton Pine in the title track.
The liner notes say that the record "embodies Arabic fiddling motifs as well as songful excitement, underpinned by a lament for the victims of the Egyptian Revolution," and is beautifully played.
Fairouz and Pine will collaborate soon in a new commission for a violin concerto.
The rest of the release includes touching songs and brilliant instrumentals by the Imani Winds and Borromeo String Quartet. It is fresh and vibrant, bringing a new sound to the 21st Century.
http://youtu.be/-OuJHIJXa0k
